The Community Harmony Strategy arose from concerns regarding the health, well-being and behaviour of ‘itinerants’ in the Northern Territory. A research project was conducted by the Northern Territory Government and ATSIC into the situation of ‘itinerants’ in Darwin and Palmerston. In June 2003 the NT Government allocated (AUD) $5.25M to create a Territory-wide Community Harmony Strategy.

The strategy’s two key aims are to reduce antisocial behaviour of ‘itinerants’ and to provide infrastructure and services that support the needs of ‘itinerant’ groups. Strategies to achieve this include proactive intervention, provision of infrastructure and the expansion of health and treatment programs. These steps are designed to provide pathways that allow ‘itinerants’ to return home or settle in towns. The Community Harmony Strategy will also focus on providing services for ‘itinerants’ suffering from substance abuse or mental illness.